From the Habsburgs to the EU: The History of Italy’s North-East

The cities of Trieste and Gorizia, on today's Italian North-Eastern border, had a very complicated history in the 19th and 20th century. In this session you will discover the key historical events that marked these lands. From the divisions caused by the two world wars to the choice of Gorizia/Nova Gorica as EU's Capital of Culture 2025.

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  • Start Date: 14 Jul 2026
    End Date: 14 Jul 2026
    Tue (Evening): 18:00 - 20:00
    Online
    Location: Online
    Duration: 1 session
    Course Code: HEH126
    Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00
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In stock
SKU
243004
Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00

What is the course about?

The aim of this lecture is to illustrate the history of Trieste and Gorizia, focusing on their social and cultural features. This will reveal some interesting historical facts that are not known by many, even among Italians.

What will we cover?

The role of this area as part of the Habsburg Empire (Trieste being its most important port and Gorizia as a small holiday destination for the Austrian aristocracy), the two world wars and the arrival of the Iron Curtain, which put these cities on the border between cultures and political systems.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- describe some events in the history of Trieste and Gorizia
- recognise the effects that these historical events had on the population and on its architecture
- appreciate the symbolic value of Gorizia being named EU Capital of Culture 2025 jointly with the Slovenian Nova Gorica

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This lecture is open to everyone and no previous knowledge is required. A good standard of English is required.
As with every history course, an open mind and a willingness to engage respectfully in class discussion will be beneficial

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The session will consist of an illustrated presentation with plenty of opportunities to ask questions. Some group  discussions will be included. The slides will be made available on Google Classroom after the session.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No additional costs, bring writing equipment if you wish to take notes.
A reading list will be provided on Google Classroom for those who would like to find out more about the subject.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Other courses on European history.  Please see the City Lit website. 

Francesco Bucciol

Francesco has taught Italian language classes and literature at City Lit since 2014. He also works as Head of the Classics Department. After graduating with honours in Modern Languages and Literatures (English, German and Serbo-Croat), he moved to London and started teaching Italian at various adult education colleges, which gave him the opportunity to share his interest in Italian language, culture and traditions to a diverse range of students. During this time, he also acquired experience in curriculum management. Francesco currently prepares students for Italian exams. His passion includes philology, Dante, early Italian literature and the history of Italy (primarily the Northeast, where he grew up and was educated).

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.